Ransomware Attack on Planters Telephone Cooperative by Fog Group

Planters Telephone Cooperative, a telecommunications provider based in Newington, Georgia, has fallen victim to a ransomware attack orchestrated by the notorious Fog ransomware group. This incident highlights the vulnerabilities faced by rural telecommunications companies in the face of sophisticated cyber threats.

About Planters Telephone Cooperative

Established in 1950, Planters Telephone Cooperative serves rural communities across Screven and Effingham counties in Georgia. The cooperative is known for its commitment to delivering high-quality telecommunications services, including fiber-optic internet and traditional telephone services. With approximately 6,697 access lines and annual revenues of around $8 million, Planters plays a crucial role in bridging the digital divide in rural areas. Their focus on customer service and affordability makes them a standout in the industry.

Attack Overview

The Fog ransomware group claims to have infiltrated Planters Telephone Cooperative's systems, accessing 1 GB of sensitive data. This attack underscores the growing threat posed by ransomware groups targeting telecommunications providers. The cooperative's reliance on advanced fiber-optic technology, while beneficial for service delivery, may also present vulnerabilities that cybercriminals can exploit.

Fog Ransomware Group

Fog ransomware, a variant of the STOP/DJVU family, has gained notoriety for its sophisticated attack methods and double extortion tactics. The group typically gains initial access through compromised VPN credentials or weak RDP configurations. Once inside, they use tools like Cobalt Strike to move laterally and encrypt files, appending extensions such as .FOG. The group's strategy of threatening to leak sensitive data on the dark web adds pressure on victims to comply with ransom demands.

Sources

• Fog ransomware crew evolving into wide-ranging threat - Computer Weekly
• Planters Telephone Cooperative
• Fog Ransomware Now Targeting the Financial Sector - Adlumin
• Planters Rural Telephone Cooperative - BroadbandNow